A non-surgical anti-aging treatment is fast rising in popularity.
Platelet Rich Plasma therapy uses a client’s own blood plasma to rejuvenate the skin of the face and neck, said Kathe Malinowski, lead esthetician and marketing manager for Eterna MedSpa & Laser Vein Center.
“Improvements have been noted in all of the following: skin tone/tightness, horizontal lines, texture and smoothness, folds, pigmentation, and scarring,” she said.
Studies have shown the treatment can improve the skin from 25 to 80 percent.
How does the procedure work?
Blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge at high speeds to separate the red blood cells from the plasma, Malinowski said. The plasma, rich in platelets, is then injected into the client’s face and neck. The platelets release growth factors which stimulate fibroblasts, responsible for the formation of collagen Types I and III, and other skin repairs.
Duration of the improvements will vary based on genetics, general health and nutrition, care of skin, sun exposure, etc., Malinowski said.
“Most experts believe the effects last at least as long as the effects of fillers (i.e. one to two years), and considerably longer in many patients,” she said.
Because Platelet Rich Plasma therapy capitalizes on the healing powers within one's own body, clients never have to worry about product recalls or late onset side effects from introducing a foreign substance into the body.
The most commonly reported side effects include mild bruising from the injection or pain at the site of injection. Because the skin of the face and neck is sensitive, most practitioners will apply a topical anesthetic cream or gel before performing Platelet Rich Plasma injections.
For optimal results, the treatment can be used in conjunction with other anti-aging services, such as the Obagi® Nu-Derm System and a series of MicroLaserPeels.